Budgam, Sep 11: District Development Commissioner (DDC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat Thursday chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the progress of the Ring Road Project in the district.
As per a statement issued, during the meeting, DC directed all stakeholders to expedite the work process and ensure timely completion of the project, emphasising its significance for public convenience, decongestion of traffic, and environmental benefits. It was informed that out of the total 42 km road length, 32 km falls within Budgam district. The NHAI representatives apprised the chair that four major entry, exit locations have been identified in Budgam that are Ichkoot, Kuzwere, Gowherpura, and Kesarmulla.
DC directed the District Mineral Officer to allow only registered GPS-installed vehicles for legal evacuation and transportation of earth/soil. He instructed that all illegal vehicles be seized immediately and FIRs registered against violators. He also directed NHAI representatives to obtain proper NoCs from the Forest department, PHE, Irrigation, PDD, DMO, and other concerned departments before starting execution of work. He stressed the importance of sharing feasibility reports with the district administration with respect to transport and land assessment, and also instructed NHAI to secure Gram Panchayat resolutions in the identified areas before initiating work. Dr Bilal highlighted that all stakeholders must be fully involved in the execution and implementation of this vital project, keeping in view the larger public interest. NHAI apprised the chair that at least 201 structures, including minor and major bridges, are to be constructed along the 38 km stretch of the project within Budgam. DC directed NHAI to remain 100 percent legal and transparent in all project-related activities, assuring that the district administration will extend full support in the smooth execution of this public asset. The meeting also discussed the proposal for a separate ring road link from Razwan Budgam to Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport Srinagar. Highlighting the benefits, NHAI informed that once completed, the road will allow smooth traffic flow at 60 km/hr speed, significantly reducing carbon emissions and contributing towards an eco-friendly transport system. Reiterating his commitment, DC said that timely execution of the Ring Road Project is of paramount importance and all concerned departments must work in close coordination for its early completion.
